Quick answer: the 2018–2025 GMC Terrain 1.5L turbo takes 4.2 qt (4.0 L) with FWD and 5.3 qt (5.0 L) with AWD, of SAE 0W-20. The 2018–2020 2.0L turbo takes 5.0 qt (FWD) or 6.0 qt (AWD) of 5W-30, and the 1.6L diesel 5.3 qt of 5W-30.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type | Specification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L turbo, FWD | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 0W-20 | dexos1 |
| 1.5L turbo, AWD | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | 0W-20 | dexos1 |
| 2.0L turbo, FWD (2018–2020) | 5.0 qt (4.7 L) | 5W-30 | dexos1 |
| 2.0L turbo, AWD (2018–2020) | 6.0 qt (5.7 L) | 5W-30 | dexos1 |
| 1.6L diesel (2018–2020 manuals) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | 5W-30 | dexos2 |
FWD and AWD differ by about a quart. GMC lists separate capacities by drive type for both turbo engines. The redesigned 2025 Terrain keeps the 1.5L at 4.2 qt (FWD) and 5.3 qt (AWD) of 0W-20.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | 1.5L FWD | 1.5L AWD | 2.0L FWD / AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | 5.0 / 6.0 qt |
| 2019 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | 5.0 / 6.0 qt |
| 2020 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | 5.0 / 6.0 qt |
| 2021 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | — |
| 2022 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | — |
| 2023 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | — |
| 2024 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | — |
| 2025 | 4.2 qt (4.0 L) | 5.3 qt (5.0 L) | — |
GM lists one capacity per engine, including the oil filter. We checked the capacity table in every model-year manual on this page.
Recommended oil type
1.5L turbo: SAE 0W-20 dexos1 (full synthetic; the 2018 manual names ACDelco or Mobil 1 0W-20).
2.0L turbo: SAE 5W-30; 0W-30 below -20°F (-29°C).
1.6L diesel: SAE 5W-30 dexos2; 0W-40 in extreme cold.
GM requires oils that meet its dexos specification (dexos1 for gasoline engines, dexos2 or dexosD for diesels) and carry the dexos approved logo. ACDelco dexos oil is recommended. Do not add anything to the oil.
How to reset the oil life on the 2018–2025 GMC Terrain
See also: Oil life reset by brand.
- Display REMAINING OIL LIFE on the DIC.
- Press and hold the select button for several seconds while the oil life display is active.
- REMAINING OIL LIFE 100% displays when the reset worked.
Steps from the 2022 manual. Reset only after an oil change.
Oil change tips
- A 5-quart jug covers the FWD 1.5L; AWD needs a 5-quart jug plus a quart.
- Add a little less than the full capacity, run the engine briefly, wait, and check the dipstick before topping up.
Sources and how we checked
All capacities and oil grades on this page come from GMC’s owner’s manuals, published on GM’s official manuals site (“Capacities and Specifications” and “Selecting the Right Engine Oil”):
- 2018 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2019 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2020 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2021 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2022 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2023 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2024 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
- 2025 GMC Terrain owner’s manual
If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.
Last checked: October 23, 2026.
FAQ
How much oil does a 2018–2025 Terrain 1.5 take?
4.2 qt (4.0 L) with FWD and 5.3 qt (5.0 L) with AWD.
What oil does a 1.5 turbo Terrain use?
SAE 0W-20 dexos1.
What oil does the 2.0 turbo Terrain use?
SAE 5W-30: 5.0 qt (FWD) or 6.0 qt (AWD).
Why does AWD take more oil?
GMC’s table lists a larger figure for AWD; use the number for your drive type.
How do I reset the oil life on a Terrain?
Show REMAINING OIL LIFE on the DIC and hold the select button until it shows 100%.
Older Terrain? See the 2014–2017 GMC Terrain. Chevy twin: 2018–2025 Equinox.